Oh you know I’m about to go in. 2018 had me crazy! It had me on point, it had me on rotation, and it had me bugged out. But at the end of me asking these crazy questions we might understand it better. But…since this is the last Scratching my Head all this time of the year, but it’s not the last! So as we countdown to the last ticks of 2018, and we prepare for our Watch Night Services, All Night parties, and family gathering to usher in 2019, and yes to get our resolutions out of what we want to do in all: you’ve guessed it, I’m scratching my head YET AGAIN!

Alright, who remembers any of my blog posts from 10 years ago?

Did anyone really pay attention to the fact that the 45 Administration is getting punked with all the Government Shutdowns in all?

What’s up with the Bird Box?

How will the Governor-Elect Tony Evers Crew really will tame the still Republican Legislature in the first term?

Why is White Supremacy still a maximum problem? Even if it’s a problem among black people in 2018?

What will be next for the Green Bay Packers that got knocked the “F” out of the playoffs, knowing that the team will rebuild and reform for the 2019-2020 Season?

You know that the Milwaukee Bucks are for real, right?

So Milwaukee, has anyone really benefited from riding the streetcar thus far in its free year?

Will the Fiserv Forum be that new guard changing of the now “soon to be dust” Bradley Center?

When Stan Lee passed away, did Bill Maher actually checked him to see he served in the Military? Mainly WWII?! Many need answers!

How many folks outside of Wisconsin never knew anything about the late great Vel Phillips?

What was the best car in 2018?

What were the worst jobs of 2018 that many will NEVER DO AGAIN?

Why did the black websites and Facebook Pages kept repeatedly on rotation published the same story about Pastor John Gray and that Lamborghini gift to his wife?

Level with me OWN viewers, what was the real reason why Love Is was canceled?

For all the black women that watched this show and I know you did: Why BET’s Mancave?

Was this the first year that many REALLY recognized International Men’s Day in November?!

For all of the Becky’s and other white folks that called the police on black folks doing civilized stuff this year and you know you did, where were your conscious minds at doing that foolishness?

Did the #MeToo Movement reach its breaking point in a sense of things that backfired?

If you smelled like Marijuana all through 2018, and you’re in the store or were in a store, did you remember to wash up before leaving the house?

For all those hated Introverts, especially BLACK Introverts, why you picked on them? Like seriously.

Will anymore Black Pastors meet with 45 in 2019 that embarrassed themselves in 2018?

So, Mutant Football League on the Nintendo Switch is making a good impression. What will it actually take for EA to get a Madden game on the system?

Most recently, I’ve seen black authors publish their books on Amazon about their Introvert experience in 2018. I need to see more. Can that happen?

Was Diablo III for the Nintendo Switch really good?

Oh, this needs to be asked, Wolfenstein II was HOT in 2018. Will it be a sequel for the Nintendo Switch?

Which jobs or careers were or are beneficial for the introverted crowd in Wisconsin in 2018?

In 2018, did many benefited using bitcoins?

In this year of stock investing, who bought a share of the Nike Stock or yet, Marijuana stock?

When the Grads of 2018 had their moment of commencements, why were some were being touched by those after dancing on stage?

Who has or is really learning from Roland Martin’s show online?

What was the worst interview this country has ever seen in 2018?

Was Black Panther that darn good this year at the movies and on DVD?

Black Church folks, are you ready for the Watch Night Services?

Was not getting the flu shot that worst in 2018?!

Black Milwaukee, what was better in 2018: WNOV 860AM between 9am-12pm or 1510AM WRRD between 9am-12pm?

So now the WWE will be getting the Women’s Tag Team Belts in 2019. But…………….what about a title that is a mid-carder for the women’s squad? For Raw, Smackdown, and NXT?

Black folks, why are we still saying the N-Word?

In 2018: who got promoted?

In 2018: who actually voted? Not just one time during the midterm election!

In 2018: Did many actually went to the doctor?

In 2018: Did any of you retained your resolutions?

In 2018: Milwaukee, did you enjoyed the Harley-Davidson 115th Anniversary? As well as Summerfest?

In 2018: Black folks, especially in the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, I know this was reported, why all the “underground pledging” that sends your pledging member in the ER?!!!

In 2018: Have any of you saved up financially for that nest egg?

In 2018: level with me, how many times that many of you DID NOT support your Alumni groups?

In 2018: Who did the most work in your community?

In 2018: Who did no work in the community? They need to be called out.

In 2018: Who was the “Dark Horse” in your family, church, organizations, etc?

In 2018: who has a job lined up for 2019 that will be even MORE SECURE?

In 2018: Who wanted a job lined up that no one wanted but applied anyway?

In 2018: How many churches you prayed to, in order to be the best they can?

In 2018: What influenced you to vote against the Republicans that many despised?

If you are a Veteran or related to a Veteran, did you call out a Veteran that protested in support of the Wall in 2018?

The American Legion will be 100 years old in 2019, right? I want to know how many African-Americans will join up and also, how many Sons of Black Veterans will join the Sons of the American Legion? Even Black Daughters the same with the Auxillary?

How many liked Black Lightning this year?

In Milwaukee, many of us have seen the sample of Light the Hoan. Who made a donation in 2018?

Black Methodists in Wisconsin, guess what? BMCR made a comeback this year. What did you think?

United Methodist Men in Wisconsin, there is a metro men’s group in town looking for “Men at Work”. Have you checked out any the meetings this year? If so, what did you think?

Who was this Jacquees dude, and why is claiming to be the King of R&B? Like in 2018?!

So I have heard that some of the GM cars might be on the chopping block in the year ahead, Which of those cars will be less to buy in the future?

Was it really a downer that Luke Cage was canceled on Netflix?

I need to ask also, who missed Scandal?

With all the retirees retired this year, who is next to go in 2019?

Many of us watched the Pinstripe Bowl when the Badgers beat Miami. A good game of course. So many questions like where were this Badgers team all year?!

If many still did blackface in 2018 which was shameful, can many not do it in 2019?

Who actually “migrated” out if Milwaukee that moved to Atlanta or Texas just to get away from the racism but only to realize that racism is everywhere?

Was it really necessary that 45 pulled the troops out of Syria?

If you hated Church folks so much in 2018, why keep talking about it?!

If many did this in 2018: Resumes. Did many kill it for job interviews?

Can someone explain the bad connection between buying Christmas gifts and Tax Time?

In all of the 1,000 posts so far, what wasn’t mentioned?

In all of the 1,000 posts what was learned from you?

In all of the 1,000 posts did anyone ever to follow what else I had to say?

Which Wisconsin teams surprised many in 2018? Brewers or Bucks?

Of all the folks who passed away this year, who was the main person that didn’t receive much recognition?

Of all the folks who were honored this year for their hard work, who didn’t get any recognition after their hard work?

Anyone lost their job unfairly in 2018?

Who was EMBARRASSED HARSHLY in 2018 that will not go away? And will it take to heal?

And this is the last question before the ball drops and clocks out for 2018: What will you carry into 2019 that you learned in 2018? And also, what will you NOT take into 2019 that you went through hellfire and brimstone in 2018?

It’s officially open for business. The new $550,000.000 plus something Fiserv.Forum is now available. It’s now available for every Bucks game, Golden Eagles game, Concert, Monster Truck rally, WWE Live Event, and potentially a 2020 Democratic National Convention. This was in the making little over two years ago in a process of keeping “the Milwaukee Bucks as the Milwaukee Bucks”. There was a speculation about the city losing the team to other cities like Seattle and others needing a NBA team. Just to recap a little, that Milwaukee has been in this position before; in terms with the Brewers with the building of Miller Park. What was that slogan? “BUILD IT NOW!” Remember that? Hope so. So with this thing with the new Bucks playhouse, not everyone wasn’t happy about “oh this is going to cost us taxpayers yet again.” And yes it wasn’t a glorious decision to create, design and build it from the ground up, but it’s here. The new arena sits near 6th Street and Juneau in the Area of MATC (my old tech college), the Brewery Housing Complex that used to brew Pabst Beer back in the day, a Hyatt Hotel, additional housing near the Hillside Area, and next area of land that used to be the Park East Freeway.And yet while it’s still standing, the 30-year-old Bradley Center will be dust in general. Let me recap this: The first time I saw it under construction was 1988 at age 11. I was getting out of Grade School then and my older sibling was getting out of High School. I remember going to a Ninja Turtle Concert, a couple of Bucks Games, Job Fairs, and even WWE Wrestling Matches. The first one I went to was in 1992 along with my late uncle and living cousins. We had a ball! And most importantly, attending the first MPS Alumni Reunion in 2016. Oh yes, I remember the Bradley. And plus the Bradley Center was a gift by Jane and Lloyd Pettit to the city for extra entertainment and sports. And extra room for those attending. The Bradley Center’s seating capacity can hold up to at least 18,000 plus.But let’s go forward with the new thing. This new arena took about two years to build. And when it was under construction, the architecture along with the jobs was on point. And when I looked and visited the arena this past Sunday, along with those of us coming out of the church, I knew it was going to be jammed packed. Long lines of cars, parking lots almost full, etc. When I got to the arena, at least to the outside portion many of us had to be checked through Security, which is a common thing in Arenas now. After that, I like many proceeded to the main entrance of the Vel R. Phillips Avenue side to gain entry into the building. Oh when I walked into the structure: I was amazed. I was amazed at the texture of the building’s walls, designs, entryway and access to the side restaurants to the building. The Bucks Pro Shop is in the Arena. So like many others with cameras, I had to bust out my Nikon and started snapping. But with my Cell Phone Camera, at first: I had to restart the blasted thing because when I tried to use it, there were security features in the arena that popped up like this:

I’m like, come on now. NOT TODAY!

But when I restarted the Cell Phone, it was normal as usual.

Anyway, after all that, the main portion of the arena I wanted to see was the basketball court itself. The inside portion was at more spaced out than I thought. The scoreboard was legit with state of the art technology. And according to one of the workers, there are cameras underneath the scoreboard if you are sitting near center court. How awesome! As I got near to the upper mezzanine area, the view began to be more interesting as I went further. And I got to the point of the arena that it was almost like this:

And I thought this was the spot. It was good for the Mezzanine view. But I heard also that the Arena has a “Panoramic Level” in which you get to see everything! All around! I know that many that seen it, probably have been in the area, but the fact of the matter is, it’s the real spot of the area that many photo hogs need not miss. I didn’t get the chance to see that part, but I’ve heard from others, it’s a good spot in the Arena! I’m just saying. Put that on your Facebook Photos or Instagram Pics or whatever. Put that on your blog postings. Not mine, YOURS! Don’t copy anyone’s pics from Facebook or Google photos. Get your camera, or your smartphone, go to the arena and get to an event and put up your Panoramic Views on and credit YOUR WORK! I’m just saying.

Towards the ending of the tour, I like everyone else, saw some of the entertainment that was part of the City’s first ever Hip Hop Week Events, and also some of the local vendors like Sconnie, Palmetto’s My World Images: the company that make the Milwaukee State of Mind Shirts, Harley-Davidson, and many others that most are locally based in the city to check out. So yes, it’s a good start of the “christening” of the Fiserv Forum for this year. Now many are asking, why the name Fiserv? Actually, Fiserv is a local company that is in Wisconsin; Mainly in Brookfield. Its main connection is with IT Financial Services that is generally known in different parts of the world. So when the naming of the arena was floating around, we thought about Miller, Harley-Davidson, Northwestern Mutual and others that we know that are well known around Milwaukee. But Fiserv? That was not thought about, but it is what it is. So if anyone is still curious what Fiserv does, the company has websites and social media pages.

For everyone that was hot mad after seeing the footage of the Black Pastors and Bishops with Trump, guess what: you should be.

By the way, it’s more like a statement here than a blog letter.

You should be pissed, angry, mad as hell, and every negated feeling in your body that the church leaders you followed or supported all this time met with a president that does not care enough about the black community. And yet there are those who supported the idea of the Pastors and Bishops in the churches that met with the crazy, always tweeting, stuffy president of Donald Trump.CALLOUT: Of all the questions I need to ask as a still church member: WHAT WERE YOU THINKING?!!!!

Many of us who were raised in the church well that God doesn’t like ugly! Does that ring a bell? And yet this needs to be asked, what does this mean if you will be hosting events, activities, or better yet, inviting new folks to join up? And what about those who are young and they see all this going on, and they might wonder what was the Pastor thinking about meeting with someone like Trump that does not care about them?!

And to think, this is one of the major reasons why many STOPPED coming, attending, contributing to or supporting the church! Don’t believe me, google the web pages, surf on social media like Facebook or Twitter, and many who have gone COGIC, Pentecostal, Baptist, Non-Denominational, Methodist, or others have said the same thing! No matter how they said it or expressed. They will look back on this and stories like this one and will distinctly remember it all. This is one of the hardest reasons to believe that many don’t do church!!!

Remember the last year……no this year I commented on that question about why don’t People don’t go to church? Yeah, that one. Go back and read it. Via the station called WNOV. Read every single word I wrote. Now, this was 7 months ago. And look where we at now with the Black Pastors meeting with Trump.CALLOUT: Shameful!

And this meeting was supposed to be about Prison Reform! Many don’t even care about that. Just a photo op with Trump.

In the video that we all saw, one the pastors, Darrell Scott commented on this about Trump that was so messed up. We’ve all seen it right?

That was the ugly backbreaker. Dude just said that Trump was the Pro-Black President we have. Is that so shameful I don’t know what is?

And oh, many of us in Milwaukee was informed about one of our Bishops, Darrell Hines of Christian Faith Fellowship Church, was one of the ministers in the discussion about Prison Reform with Trump. Many of us were floored and shocked that this man who helped rebuild a strip mall into a school and youth center in all met with a guy like Trump. One of our radio stations, Jammin 98.3 broke the story first, then the rest of the media like Channel 4 also chimed into the story with comments via WNOV’s Jermaine Reed’s show.

Mostly according to the story, many whom called into the station were against the opinions but without any surprise, the folks who backed Hines the most were the Church Members themselves. Christian Faith Fellowship Church has a neon sign posted in described: “Sinners are Welcome Here.” It’s a need for a remake.

Now many are asking, what was the reaction of the Pastors who were NOT present during the so-called meeting? One has spoken out:

Dr. Kevin Murriel of Cascade UMC in Atlanta spoke for about 33 minutes and he hit the nail on the head in with the pastors and bishops didn’t do their “homework” in that meeting with a guy like Trump who disrespected Puerto Rico, Haiti and other African Nations being labeled as S-Hole Countries, Re-vamped up Mass Incarceration, Ignoring Housing issues affecting Black Folks, Education and many others. As the young cats of today would say, he went in! And in part, he challenged the members of his church to research the pastors (including Bishop Darrell Hines) about what was said and commented. Dr. Murriel said in his sermon: “Do your homework!” Well apparently, AGAIN neither the men and women in that room with Trump HAVE NOT DONE THEIR HOMEWORK! Come on now! Just like in school, if you have not done your homework, YOU WILL FAIL! You will get bad grades. You will get that Failing Grade on the test. You will get that low percentage and get mad at the folks who DID their homework, than those who DIDN’T do their homework!

Oh, you don’t hear me.

This needs to be a wake-up call for every pastor, bishop, apostle, lay servant, deacon, head mother, head father, and any HEAD of the Church that this example will NOT get you more members or visitors. This will not get you noticed positively. This will not get you or your congregation on the same page as everyone else. I know what I’m saying is a bit harsh as a “STILL contributing head church member”. The folks whom probably left and talking smack about you or anyone else have given their due by stating of what they saw in the pews back then. They didn’t speak then. But now, I think it’s an emotional issue. It’s a remembrance of the pain of what they went through, and yes they I think to recognize that not many are as evil or scandalous as everyone else, including strict. Heck, I was raised by strict parents. So what, it’s the truth.

So this video of the Black Pastors and Bishops needs to be learned. And I know that it will not be very liked. But I dare say this also: hold the folks accountable. Just like in the Obama Administration often said all the time. And if you hold them accountable, then they remain intact of their jobs. And of course many in the community will continue to condemn all the Churches having “alleged ATMs” in the building, forcing folks to stay and tithe more, scandals, don’t show love for the LGBT, and telling about the abuse they encountered growing up and hearing stories of what goes on behind the scenes in hypocritical context. However, I should say this: yes not all are like that. Are many hypocritical at work? Or the club on Saturday Night? Your Class Reunion? Your Fraternity/Sorority Meetings and events? The mall? Uber? Lyft? Smoking or smelling like Weed in Walmart? Operating your own business? The old neighborhood? The new neighbors in the new neighborhood? Think about it.

All in all, no matter what your stance on religious stuff is: it’s an ongoing process.

Just today that “The Forum” has new life. As we know that the segment was dismissed on July 28th due to the “irreconsobile differences with management” of WNOV.

But after about a week being absent, “The Forum” host Sherwin Hughes made the breaking news via social media, that his radio segment will be on another station, 1510am WRRD Radio.

If anyone knows about the station in general it is independent news/talk radio. And it was created via my knowledge, that the station like this was born due to the overlapping of Conservative Talk Radio that blurred many in the Greater Milwaukee Area. And yes, the African-American voices like 1290 WMCS was gone in 2012. 860 AM of course is still out there. Now the shift has gone from that of dominant conservative radio, partially liberal, to have a break with filling it up with independent talk. Partially, that’s why I think the WRRD Station was created in my opinion.

On several occasions, I have listened to WRRD featuring Earl Ingram in discussing various topics. Even education. As an example of that, out of me blogging my mind all the time, I take part of a organization that supports higher education bound students for scholarships here in Milwaukee called the MLK Scholarship Coalition. This was the second occasion of this year it was promoted on the segment. This I really am proud of getting out the word of the scholarship, and the host was awarded a special appreciation a couple of years ago for his work in the community for a long time. Even on Black Radio.

But……..beginning August 13th, the same day that Milwaukee Public Schools starts early, “The Forum” will be on the air again between 8am -11am Milwaukee time. At the same time, from my understanding that WNOV’s early time slot talk show, “The Rise and Shine Morning Show” with Jermaine Reed will be during the 7am – 11am hour. So it will be interesting to see how this goes between two African-American males on two different stations discuss topics that many in the community already know and will know. Head to Head!

But for “The Forum” listeners, the black talk goes on. Be ready for August 13th for a brand new era.

Before anyone in Milwaukee gets bent out of shape about the up and coming People’s Flag: I need every Milwaukeean no matter what age or generation to closely listen up. Even if you moved out or just don’t know. I don’t know why I’m talking about this. But, whatever.

It seems to me that this whole while, we’ve been talking about a Flag. The city’s current flag being a “hot mess”, outdated and not up to par of the current status of what’s going on now. It ain’t hip, I know.

For this, I unlike many, who didn’t took the time to read about the history of things of how it came to be. Let me put it like this: many of you are “flag sensitive” about this. But I’m here to help you about the meaning behind the “so called worst flag” for the Brew City from my point of view, with facts.

OK. Let’s start with this.

Stop the sensitive crap and grow up. Let’s go over to see what this so-called “hot mess” actually means. Like many of things, I’m going from left to right.

Starting from the left: That funny looking yellow thing there represents wheat and barley. All that beer you drink from MillerCoors or Pabst comes from that. Moving on, is the old Milwaukee County Stadium. And I’m assuming who used to play there. The next building as many know is the Panther Arena. Or for you old heads: the MECCA. Towards the center is a building we see near 200 East Wells Street is City Hall. Another building towards the right is more industrial buildings of the same meaning of industrialization. The boat with the water waves shown symbolizes the port. As in the Port of Milwaukee. Port of Goods. And many of you got offended by this cross. To be specific, that almost resembles the Basilica neighborhood on the South Side. And I know many have been there besides morning mass. It’s a church, folks.

The “1846” is what you ask? The founding year of the city. The big cog in the center is the main feature in which it is symbolic for manufacturing history. Like our Harley-Davidson Motorcycles, and other manufacturing parts we produced here. And currently.

Inside of the Cog, are three symbols. One of them is a head of a Native American. Let’s be calm here, its yet to believe that is symbolic of it’s connections of it’s earlier settlers whom happened to be Native Americans. How do you think Milwaukee got it’s name? Its also saying, millioke , the Good Land.

The little flag for most almost resembles a service flag or a Civil War-Era flag. And the last mini symbol in contrast has a connection to the Milwaukee Public Library.

Now for all of the “flag sensitive folks”, I need to ask, do you all get that? Is this making sense? I had to research this over and over again just to get a sense of understanding of what this is without learning a darn thing!

Of course many will not know because many will not do their homework! Like I said, do your research, please.

Other questions loom up. Now I know this has to be far fetching, but what about the family of the creators that designed and made the city flag? Did anyone from the common council community, mayor’s office, or the people’s flag folks ever talked to them? I would speak on that. The descendants of the late Alderman Fred Steffan needs to be contacted face to face. Why I’m referencing them you ask? I think would be benefiting that Mayor Tom Barrett, the entire Milwaukee Common Council, the Milwaukee Arts Board, the representatives of the People’s Flag of Milwaukee, historians and most of all, the family of the late Alderman needs to have a “city flag conference” about stating why the city flag would be updated with the current design. The family I believe, needs to be contacted. I don’t know the family, but if I were one of the committee members or flag art reps, I would bring them into the conversation. The descendants are still out there and one of them did an interview with the Journal Sentinel several years ago about this subject. And I mentioned that subject here.

Well earlier today, there was a public discussion about the flag and it’s objective use. I’m talking about the people’s flag here. And yes, the creators gave their incentive about the reason why it was chosen, from the brainstorming of young and old, even black folks that shocked me a bit. The 1,000 designs and then the main five chosen for finals. The one got picked on Flag Day 2016 came to this:

Yes this is the flag that was chosen. According to the creation of this, it’s description as follows via the CRWFlags.com website:The flag is horizontally divided orange-dark blue. In the center is placed a disk, whose upper part, located on the orange stripe, is white, and whose lower part, located on the blue stripe, is lighter blue with two horizontal dark blue stripes.The meaning of the flag is the following: “The sun rising over Lake Michigan symbolizes a new day. The light blue bars in its reflection represent the city’s three rivers and founding towns. Gold symbolizes our brewing history and white represents the city united.”

During the Common Council Meeting, which you can see via the City’s website, yes there were talks about symbolism. The “sunrise” for example was inspired believe it or not is from an unlikely source: the City of Milwaukee’s Seal.

Look at the center of the seal. What you see is a house, a tower like structure of a lighthouse, a human figure that probably resembles a founder or settler. But the viewpoint by the land, is Lake Michigan. And the Sun is rising over the Lake. So yes, that is where the People’s Flag folks got parts of it’s Sunrise from: The city’s seal.

And yes there talks about flags giving power or meaning. There were references of the American Flag with the colors of Red, White and Blue. The Red and White Stripes signify the Original 13 Colonies with meanings of Hardness/Valor for the Red, and the Purity/Innocence for the color White. As far as the Blue: Vigilance, Perseverance and Justice. And the 50 stars, which represents the States. And for the record, Old Glory is not being replaced. That is thrown out. Stop the hype on that!

After all the questions and comments, there were some additional comments about taxpayers, the funding, sensitivity, branding, ownership, design creation copyrights, new identification, etc. But there will be additional talks for another couple of months towards the end of the year to see where the idea goes from here.

My advice: those ideas I described earlier, probably needs to happen. And for the record, not everyone uses the internet, texting or Social Media. And I would like to see if possible, put that on the ballot. Since it’s a “people’s project,” put it where the people can decide in voting. A referendum. And of course, talk it over with the whole city! Not just the usual 6,000 plus that represents Milwaukee online! The population is well over 600,000.

And if officially, the “S” in my Stephen’s Spot Photo logo and cover photo might change the colors of the ideal flag. Don’t call me a fan yet. The jury is still out.

Just now ,this has been popped in my head. I’m scratching my head again about Milwaukee’s Big Gig. Summerfest is coming on June 27th this year kicking off #51. And yes, you fest goers need to get your gear on and being the attendees you are: Curious, interested, ready, happy, drunk, and yes going for a good time. Not exactly in that order. I’m not just scratching my head here. I’ve been scratching my head about this for a LONG WHILE! And yes, I used to work there. Oh, if you are a current Summerfest management worker, start taking notes.

Why there are folks wondering that Summerfest is 51 this year, and not 50? (Originally Summerfest actually had it’s planning ideas in 1966-67).

Summerfest as many knows attracts all kinds of music. How often does it attract Gospel music? For you the unfamiliar crowds, go to a Black Church to hear a gospel music choir or buy either Kirk Franklin or John P. Kee. Or Snoop Dogg’s Bible of Love. And by the way, I’m not a Gospel fan, but I’m doing you Gospel heads a favor here.

Why was it really hard to get Hip Hop/Rap acts to Summerfest, like in the last couple of years? Now it’s not a concern. And not many in the black community can’t relate to RATT or Whitesnake. Or even George Thorogood and the Destroyers. I’m just saying.

Is it really hard to get to know the free days? Especially if you coming home from work!

Just for the record, if you buy a piece of merch from the big gig, you know you are supporting local stuff, right? Just like the pins. I need a Summerfest pin from the 50th to my collection!

This is what Summerfest needs: Have a free networking day for the FORMER Employees. Can that be done?

What is that music thing with the headphones and folks are dancing around to DJ Music? Can Summerfest do this?

It appears that the change in music scenes around Summerfest go from old fashioned to the rave like style. Agree or disagree?

I need to ask this: when looking at the fireworks for the Big Bang, can DJ music be a factor? As well as fireworks on top of the US Bank Building like before and maybe…….The Northwestern Mutual Tower or the 833 Building?

Speaking of Black Music Month: by the way June is Black Music Month for those whom don’t know; who were the well known Black acts to perform at Summerfest? Local or famous?

And who is the latest well known now Black act to perform at Summerfest? Local or famous?

Should Summerfest have a free day for the American Legion Family? Like the free day for the Military and Veterans?

Wait a minute: This also came to mind. Summerfest needs an MPS Alumni Day and MPS Proud Day to support the Milwaukee Public Schools. Should this be a good thing? As well as other schools that are not MPS? And I’ll best many of the MPS Alumni probably got one of their gigs at Summerfest doing work long ago. Probably, still doing work!

Why hasn’t any member of the faith community offered or asked to do Communion to the patrons at Summerfest? Just a thought in asking. Not to bug those whom are not so religious. Look, Summerfest goer folks need prayer too. Getting to, in, and from the park!

Can Summerfest really put up a networking area for those looking for work for any job? Or just simply network with other businesses?

I don’t really have to ask this, but could Summerfest provide internships for those who want to get started in the management entertainment business? In any field? In any area? Plus ANY age?

I’m afraid that I shouldn’t write this blog story but many probably won’t care. You probably might read something else and that’s fine. But I want to summarize something that’s been on my mind since. It appears of a news info about the Wisconsin UMC is looking at the up and coming congregations about the areas that are mostly African, Hmong and Hispanic. It’s really apart of the “Wisconsin Anew” thing that the Conference has been pushing for quite sometime. However, I think there is one element that does not seem to weigh in and forgotten the most is the African-American UMC Voices.

I need the Wisconsin Conference UMC to hear me out as a 4th Generation African-American Member: if it’s true that the conference is trying to somewhat “silence the African American voices” regarding the all black churches in the Milwaukee Area that is a blatant mistake! It’s a mistake that the from what I hear that the Conference is not interested in the voices of the African American Community regarding it’s flagship churches! One of them is my home church since it’s founding of the year 1949.

Why do I feel that this is necessary to keep the African American UMC Voice in Milwaukee? Why is it necessary? It’s our right to maintain a voice to support our African American congregations, and with that, comes our issues, concerns and objectives. One of our ideal objectives is to launch an “African-American Worship Center” on the grounds of one of our sister churches. The building would serve a purpose to maintain, grow and stimulate ideas of membership, services, events, and concepts to maintain our voice with the African American Community in the United Methodist Church. Particularly in the Milwaukee area! Everyone knows that the Milwaukee area is 40% African- American. That is a fact. Wisconsin is only about 8% when it comes to the African-American population. That also is a fact!

But why this? What is the reason of trying to do this?!

It’s somewhat obvious to me that the Conference as positive as it is, is using this mark to silence the black folks. Once we go silent we can’t say much or do much as we set out to do. I hate to say this, but as a black man…excuse me, African-American male that does care about the objectives and ideas of the church, I find this disturbing and somewhat, hold your breath: racist.

This is what this is sounds like almost. Racism. Picking apart the strongholds to make them weak. Now I’m not into hating the Hmong, Hispanic and African here. I got friends in those groups and have no hate on them. HOWEVER: when it comes to the harm of the black community and the dealt of the being driven out because of the Anew idea doesn’t fit in all, that is what I have an issue with it.

My home church was founded yet again in 1949. In an area of Milwaukee that many are “afraid to go” to and it was near the Carver Park Area. The Original Bronzeville district! And in the homes of the one of the founders, the members started out with 5 members. 5! It wasn’t no upstart! And stapled as the first African-American United Methodist Church established with a resume of 15 Pastors combined nearly 70 years of experience of service. Even though we are a small bunch, but we maintain our status, objective and beliefs to effectively GROW as a church! This is what we want to do. And in the spirit of our predecessors and ancestors we want to make this happen for the future of the church. Specifically our members whom are African-American and needing a voice to support in the community!

I really hope that the Conference does not take this thing of my message the wrong way. They must hear about our concerns and objectives. We are apart of this team of United Methodist whether they like it or not. I say this to the Bishop and the Cabinet members on down. Even though that I don’t hear alot of the meetings and messages as much: I do know what the heck is going on! I can’t speak for the African-American Community that are United Methodists in Milwaukee, but I can speak for myself that this idea of suppressing our voice is stupid! We deserve a right to be heard and to summarize our ideas to not only support our own, but in fairness to support the Anew stuff with the Conference.

We’re trying to make things anew to get ourselves straight. Again, our membership needs work, the youth, young adults and children’s group needs to be revived. Already the United Methodist Women’s group mission work is going well so far, and soon to be: the United Methodist Men along with other United Methodist Men’s personal will engage in the community.

CALLOUT: This needs to go viral!

Not just in Wisconsin but it needs go viral EVERYWHERE! Even if you are a Black UMC in another state that understands the situation we’re going through. And the “rally” needs to come to Wisconsin and asks the BLACK UMC CHURCHES what needs to be done?! Real simple. Time to organize and get off the clock!

It’s getting real now! This “so-called suppression” must stop! We don’t want to sellout, turn back, nor be tokens for anything deals with this matter!

Word on the street that the 2018 Annual Conference had little representation of the African-American Members. I want to make a idea that should go VIRAL. Bring the Wisconsin Conference Experience to where we are. Bring it to the Greater Milwaukee Area. MAINLY MILWAUKEE! I am dead serious. If you want it, be real about it. Not everyone is not going out to Middleton or Sun Prairie to get things done. You need to bring it over here. This is my thing.

Sidenote: I do have access to a Black Methodists for Church Renewal page on Facebook. Maybe this story that I’m writing needs to be picked up there. Also the black stories in media needs to follow this as well.

As the day comes for the Dads, we know that many will celebrate the men that gives us love. We also realize that Father’s Day for the church side is going to be less than Mother’s Day in which we know already. Plus yes there will be women that will moan and complain about the father’s not being there for the kids, not doing nothing for the kids, community, etc. And yes, even the fathers whom are missed in death will be everyday reminded that their ongoing spirit still lingers on. And we have to face the wacky events. And I’m scratching my head again.

Ok, ladies. Let’s be real. Why will some of you will complain about the fathers of your kids this Father’s Day?

Will all the men wear some sort of blue like the baseball teams on Sunday? It’s to recognize prostate cancer awareness.

So after 60 years in the game, IHOP or the International House of Pancakes, will be now known as the International House of……..Burgers?!! Seriously?! Will Pancakes be still selling?

Black folks: June is Black Music Month as we know. Are we educating the masses who love our music in all?

So far the hype of the Milwaukee Streetcar is gaining steam. Plus you realize it’s only 5 months away until it fully debuts, right?

Right now on the election watch here in Wisconsin, August 14th will arrive before you know it. Still voting, right?

Milwaukee: Summerfest will be here. You ready? I got tips!

Why is 45 having issues with Canada? Particularly with the Prime Minister?!

The Brewers still own the NL Central so far. Is it real yet for the Craig’s Crushers?

They say that one of the introverts’ nightmares is job fairs. Career fairs, etc. Is the prophecy true? Do we Introverts need our OWN job fairs?

For the All Black American Legion Posts in Milwaukee/Wisconsin: why do you NOT have any Sons, Auxiliary or Legion Riders Groups? I need answers!

It’s been 20 years since James Byrd, Jr was murdered. By racists in Texas dragging him to his death. Did we forget this, America?

The Milwaukee Bucks’ new home will be opening in a couple of months. Who took the tour so far?

Here in Milwaukee: the Milwaukee Police Department is rocked with pain of the death of Officer Charles Irvine, Jr. We all know what happened yet again and I know many of us are still mixed by the feelings overall by the Police: Racism, Brutality, etc. We all know. Even harassment. Even the unacceptable stuff of the moniker copied of “Blue Lives Matter.” We know it. After Officer Irvine is remembered at his funeral on June 16th, what will the attitudes of us and the Police change for the better?

Sidenote: Reference the Milwaukee Bucks Basketball Player Sterling Brown after he was tased 18 times by the MPD.CALLOUT: For us in the United Methodist Church, specifically in the Black UMC’s and BMCR: Why are we being attacked? Seriously ask this question at the Annual Conferences! Let them know how you feel.

This needs to be asked: why there are not hordes of Harleys in Milwaukee that do parades for Juneteenth Day? Yeah, I’m asking this that needs real answers!

Anthony Bourdain passed on due to suicide. Why did he go that way?! Man! And also Kate Spade went the same.

Here in Milwaukee: what will it take for the MPS Alumni to continue the “machine of reaching out” to the former students? Besides social media? And what will it take for the Alumni of all High Schools to be FURTHER engaged?

Is there a real reason why many will celebrate Juneteenth Day and or the 4th of July in the Black Community more or less?

In two months: Harley-Davidson will be 115 years old. Black Community: WE NEED TO BE READY WITH THE IRON ELITE – BLACK BIKER JAMS! Can we do this? Last time, we were late, but on time! White folks, do not get upset about a black biker jam in Milwaukee. You know what you said 5 years ago on Facebook!

Milwaukee: who will be the best Sheriff for the County? Richard Schmidt or Earnell Lucas? Make your choice on August 14th.

Of all the field of Wisconsin Democrats for Governor: I think that Mahlon Mitchell is the underdog. Can this underdog be the man? And oh, Wisconsin never had a black governor in its 170 year history!

Why is Sheriff David Clarke still talking on Twitter? Oops, I’m sorry FORMER SHERIFF David Clarke!

Is the time for Scott Walker up? Is this is the end?

For the Fourth of July, should many design a shirt that has “The Struggle Continues” draped in Red, White and Blue? You designers need to be ready now.

So I’m reading about this extended warranty about CarShield. I like many others are tired to pay high costs in car repairs in all. Is this CarShield thing a real good deal to have? I need answers. Real answers!

For my Pride Readers: How is your Pride month doing? Now for those wondering, Stephen’s Spot on this WordPress does NOT discriminate against anyone based on race, creed, class, sexual orientations, etc.

Class of 2018, congrats. Now what? Expect a blog letter!

During the Pridefest weekend in Milwaukee, Harley-Davidson had the “Ride with Pride“. You know Harley attracts all kinds of folks, right? Even the LGBTQIA folks.

Should the Milwaukee Police Department go back and hand out Baseball Cards like they did back in the 80’s? Way before you Millennials and Gen Z folks.

Final overall question before I ask about the Dads: Has the Golden State Warriors whom just now won a back to back championship over the Cavs is considered a “Dynasty?” If you win more Championships in lets say 4 years in a row, then you can call yourself a Dynasty. Not yet, Dub Nation! Even though you got stock of weapons. Just saying.

Now: this is for all the fathers. Ladies chill out. Don’t say a word!

How many Fathers didn’t have a father go to, became a father to go to?

What is the main reason why Father’s Day is so less than Mother’s Day when it comes to church?

My father mattered. Anyone else’s father mattered when they were living? How do we continue to legacy on the real tip without having the hassle of breaking traditions? And knowing each other besides going to Reunions and FUNERALS?! That seems to be the theme for generations. It’s time to break the cycle! Seriously.

For the first time fathers: how will you really support the toughest job of backing your son or daughter?

Since when Target had the “Baby Daddy” cards out? Did I miss it? Nah, Pass.

For the seasoned vets of fathers: you know the game. Is there a father to be that you are training right now to be a great dad?

For us who don’t have children and are men and not fathers: How can we support the kids in the community with the families that need the extra assistance? Always remember, it takes a village!

For us the families that never had an experience of growing up without a father, how have our Uncles, Grandfathers, Older Cousins whom are Dads, still play a role in getting that ultimate objective in life?

I dare to ask: why there are moms “now just blaring the thought” of seeing Father’s Day Cards for Mothers? Like in 2011 in Walgreens!

For the fathers whom are behind prison bars: I know that this is a hard question to ask, but do you really have the heart to see your kids?

For the fathers that have been missing for over 20 plus years from your kids, why did you leave them?!

For the fathers that have been reformed and out of jail, was the lessons learned for the better?

For the fathers that are legendary, are you inspiring the next era to step up?

For the fathers that are still in the fight and hard working, are you quitting or not? Do you still have the fortitude?

And for the families of fathers that keep it real: what is next?

On the real tip though, listen up:

Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers!

Happy Father’s Day to the fathers who read my blog.

Happy Father’s Day to the fathers who are changing lives.

Happy Father’s Day to the fathers who are staying in the fight!

Happy Father’s Day to the fathers whom are missed and remembered EVERYDAY!

Happy Father’s Day to the fathers who are reclaiming their time. RECLAIM YOUR TIME DADS!

Happy Father’s Day to the fathers who aren’t always living foul!

To the non-Fathers that take care of folks on the fly, (like Godfathers) even though that this day is not really for you, but you act upon on being a father in general!

Lastly, even though it’s Father’s Day, don’t single out the Mothers that support. Please don’t. All Fathers Matter! And the Mothers (especially today’s MOTHERS) need to recognize it. Mothers you had your day last month. But today: Happy Father’s Day!

This is an excerpt that is from the Stephen’s Spot Facebook Page. Yesterday, the Milwaukee Police Department lost an Officer that was on duty during a high pursuit of a suspect driver. The department is shocked by this incident as well as the family.

No matter how you feel about the Police in general, we know that the supporters are in full force in all. BUT the officer, Charles Irvine, Jr. whom has passed on, had a family and also was in pursuit of a fast paced driver, at age 23.

We in the community mourn the loss of this officer. And also, we also have mixed feelings about the police in terms of brutality, racism, crimes, etc. But not today. Be in prayer for the family of this officer.

The last time an active officer was killed in the line of duty in Milwaukee: 1996 and it was Wendolyn O. Tanner.

Sidenote: The Funeral of the late officer is being planned at this time. This has definitely rocked the core of the Milwaukee Police Department, and the driver that the cops were chasing has been caught. It was a reckless driver that is one of many that the police is still on the hunt to arrest and investigate in all areas. Like many in the community I choose not to celebrate harshly about this officer’s life. No I do not! Again, we all have mixed feelings about the police, especially if you are Black! We know what it is. We say: Black Lives Matter, but the supporters spun it and came out with “Blue Lives Matter.” That moniker is not flying today. Yes, his life mattered. Not because he was a cop, but he had a family to support. Officer Irvine came in at age 19 as a Police Aide for the City of Milwaukee and 2 1/2 years later, he was a cop for the city. Think about the times when we were 23. For him: his life was just getting started, but cut short.

Again: whether you like the police or not. Or if you back the badge or not back it up, but know this: the family is in shock. They lost someone close to them.

While many of us were taking the day off from work and school, the infamous Memorial Day Holiday returned as well as the “unofficial”start of the summer season. You know that is when many will start to travel alot? Yeah that one. This is also the same Memorial Day when many of us in the black community will remind the country that it was black folks that made the holiday. Long history of that missed! And also, it appears that the sacreligous saying of “Happy Memorial Day” is dumb. But however, I’m scratching my head again.

Like last year and this year and the year before that: WHY ARE WE SAYING HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY?!! It’s not for the living!

I need to ask this: does the African-American Community gets to be honored on Memorial Day when many of our black servicemen died or KIA in battle? Even while serving when the country didn’t give them love?

The month of May is Military Appreciation Month, which military member should be given love each day?

The Second Milwaukee Streetcar arrived this month, and in June, the Open House begins. Is June 8th still on your calendar, Milwaukee?

Starbucks was closed for one day after Memorial Day. You know what it means?

Has anyone really adapted to the full blown downside of Tinder?

If Call of Duty is not Nintendo Switch material, can Wolfenstein II be that combat game to become the best ever?

Next month is June: Black Music Month, Pride Month, Month set aside for Fathers, Juneteenth, The First Day of Summer………oh, you know us men realize that it’s also Men’s Health Month? Wear light blue!

It’s really apparent that the celebration of the United Methodist Church’s 50 is catching on. But after the celebration is one and done, what’s really next?

Why many ask those whom are single and no kids: “what’s wrong?”

Why many ask those whom are introverted that are “anti-social?!” Knowing its not the people, it’s really the connection.

Hold up: Noah’s Ark got a new water slide in Wisconsin. Hint it’s a snake ride. Not as you think. Wanna know?

Can the American Legion go to the inner city schools/events to assist them about black history war figures? Along with the Auxiliary, Riders and Sons? This is a serious question here. Not knocking the suburbs.

So many people think that the NFL is being unfair (still unfair) about Colin Kaepernick’s kneeling. Many have said that it’s unfair for him that he’s not signed to a team. NOW the NFL has made a rule that if a player doesn’t rise before the anthem, the team will be penalized 15 yards. There was a time that the NFL players were in the locker room while the anthem is played. Like 2009. My question is, why did 45 had to bust out saying that those who didn’t recite the anthem shouldn’t be in the country?!

Oh my God! Roseanne’s reboot and reruns has been cancelled due to a racist tweet to one of former members of the Obama/Biden Crew: Former Senior Adviser Valerie Jarrett. For you Roseanne fans: so who’s the snowflake now?

Wisconsin: we turned 170 years old this week. What about the 8% of African-Americans living in the state for opportunities?

Additional School Shootings in Santa Fe, Texas and also after a High School Graduation in Atlanta, Georgia. Now I need to ask yet again after the “March for our Lives”, why are we are NOT getting the message?!

Was this a great decision by Mayor Tom Barrett by NOT running for Governor in Wisconsin in 2018?

I’ve seen Graduations of older folks in their 90’s graduating from College. You know it’s not too late, right?

How will Juneteenth Day 2018 turn up?

This is an interesting article: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel published a story about skills being important as degrees. Should this an idea to get folks back to work in a new way? And I know this needs to be asked: if you have a Bachelor’s Degree and you’ve been working low wages for a while well after college, and you want a newer BETTER JOB, why is this being blocked for those whom have a 4 year degree?

MSNBC had a Town Hall Meeting about Everyday Racism in America. Mainly with the now concerns of racism at Starbucks, Yale, etc. Was White America as well as any other naysayer American was paying attention?

Black Men: when we are stopped by the police or had been stopped by the police, do we feel a sense of concern like they are going to get us? And could this be one of the reasons why an interest in Police work is not out of the question?

And the Final question: Has EVERY American get this?

Coming in June: two things to write about – A Traditional Stephen’s Spot Blog about Graduations. And MEN – I have a serious blog to write about Men’s Health and you need to listen, er read what I have to say. Especially Black Men! Blood Pressures and Diabetes.